Cobalt R4 Sterndrive 2026 Review

The R4 is a luxury crossover bowrider, with its versatility extending from cruising and wakeboarding through to relaxing and entertaining at anchor. The 2.59m wide beam also gives it a very stable feel.

Cobalt’s signature flared bow helps to keep passengers dry, even in choppy conditions. With a dry weight of approximately 2495kg, the R4 can be towed behind most full-size SUVs or utes, depending on towing capacity.

The sterndrive setup keeps the swim platform uncluttered while delivering responsive handling.

Our test unit, courtesy of JSW Powersports, is priced at $286,832. A trailer costs an additional $17,990.

Standard features are extensive and reflect Cobalt’s premium positioning. A few of the standouts on our test unit included hand-stitched upholstery, a folding swim step, stainless-steel hardware, LED lighting, Bluetooth premium audio and a well-appointed helm with digital engine display.

Engine options to accompany the R4 are plentiful, with sterndrives ranging from 300 to 430hp. Our test boat was fitted with a grunty Monsoon 5.3-litre 350hp engine.

Our test boat also included the following:

• White folding arch tower with bimini
• 220V battery charger
• Solid teak dinette table
• Satin black lettering
• Full boat mooring cover
• Soft-trac flooring
• Transom shower
• Transom stereo remote
• Windlass all-chain anchor system
• Wireless phone charger
• Three-colour custom hull
• Caramel/carbon Interior

Cobalt’s attention to detail is obvious, and the overall finish is exceptional. It has a sleek profile with a real sporty feel to it. The captain’s chair is customisable and comfortable, and passenger perks include soft armrests which make cruising immensely comfortable.

The bow is deep and flush, while wraparound seating up front includes an infill cushion that converts the space to a sunlounge. There is fully lined storage underneath the seats, while the cockpit has been designed with L-shape seating and has a reversible back rest that can be moved into multiple positions. Being able to turn the aft bench seat into rear facing is ideal for observers.

At the stern, there is an extended swim platform with an integrated fold-down swim step which makes accessing the water easy – particularly beneficial for families with children.

The dash houses a dual-glass Garmin display with a push button ignition. The elevated helm seat and bolster ensure maximum visibility, while the flip-up bolster is handy when driving in the standing position. The throttle is smooth and progressive. Everything feels intuitive, with a touch of luxury thanks to the stitching around the dash.

The cockpit comfortably fits up to 13 passengers. The wide beam allows for generous leg room, and the deep seating makes the boat feel extremely safe during sharp turns.

There’s an abundance of storage under every seat, plus a large in-floor locker suitable for watersports gear – which also helps to keep the floor and walkway clear.

The Sof-Trac flooring looks premium and feels nice under foot. The sun pad is large enough to comfortably stretch out on, and the convertible back rest is one of the most used features during a day on the water.

With the Monsoon engine delivering rapid acceleration, the R4 lifts onto the plane super quick – especially with only four passengers on board our test unit. The wind did pick up during the day, but our top speed was 44.1 knots at 5450rpm using 109L/hour. Top speed would obviously depend on load and prop selection.

The deep V hull cuts through chop easily, and the R4 feels composed and confident in turns. Steering is precise, even during aggressive manoeuvres.

Our cruising speed was 27 knots at 3500rpm using 37L/hour. It felt quiet at this speed, and we could easily engage in conversation. The boat’s weight and hull design give it a reassuring solidity – it doesn’t rattle or flex in rougher water.

The Cobalt R4 Sterndrive is a polished, high-end bowrider that excels as a family, entertaining or watersports boat. It showcases premium materials along with thoughtful ergonomics and refined on-water performance that justify its positioning.

For buyers seeking entertainment, all-day cruising ability, the punch to tow wakeboarders and look the best in the marina, the R4 sterndrive is a convincing choice.

Model: Cobalt R4 Sterndrive
Length: 7.35m
Beam: 2.59m
Hull weight: 2495kg
Maximum power: 300-430hp (depending on configuration)
Fuel capacity: 189L
Passengers: Up to 13
Engine as tested: Monsoon 5.3L 350hp
Priced from: $286,832
Supplied by: JSW Powersports